EP21 The Magpie - Bird Song

The Magpie, scientifically known as Pica Pica, is a medium-sized bird from the Corvidae family, found throughout Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. Magpies are known for their striking black and white plumage, which is complemented by a long, graduated tail and a strong, curved bill.
Magpies are highly social birds, living in large groups called 'parliaments'. Their distinctive, chattering calls are heard throughout the day and are used for communication between group members. Their song is a series of harsh, croaking notes, often interspersed with mimicry of other birds.
Magpies are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, and urban areas. They are often seen in fields and meadows and are known to visit gardens to feed on insects, fruit, and small animals.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of Magpies is their habit of collecting and hoarding shiny objects, such as coins, jewellery, and other small, reflective items. This behaviour has led to many legends and stories about the bird's supposed love of shiny things.
Magpies are highly intelligent and are known for their problem-solving abilities. They are opportunistic feeders, eating a wide range of foods, including insects, small mammals, eggs, and carrion.
During the breeding season, Magpies form monogamous pairs and build large, domed nests in trees or shrubs. The female Typically lays between 5 and 8 eggs, which are incubated by both parents. After hatching, the chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after around 4 weeks.
In some cultures, Magpies are seen as a sign of good luck or bad luck, depending on the number seen. However, they are also sometimes viewed as pests due to their predation of other bird species and their habit of raiding other birds' nests. Despite this, Magpies are important members of many ecosystems and play an important role in controlling insect and small animal populations.